Pulling the tranny for the first time might take you 4 hours max but is pretty
easy and straightforward.  Be sure you check to see if your CV joints bolt to
the tranny with allen bolts or torx type bolts (I have seen both on Vanagons).
I can drop them in 2 hours and have done so many times with no problems.  Pull
the van up on ramps, support the trans with a nice floor jack (put a piece of
wood between the jack and the tranny).  Unbolt the trans and then steady it
with one hand and drop it down slowly with the jack handle.
I can get you a rebuilt trans for your van for $925 + 400 core (this comes
with a 2 year warranty) or $800 + $400 core (this comes with a 6 month
warranty).  The rebuilders are not picky about thier cores as long as the case
is not cracked or broken they will accept them.  Shipping would be $50 and the
trans would be to you in two days.
Let me know if I can help ya.
Ken Wilford
Van-Again
John 3:16